Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé
Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé is a plant species found in the humid evergreen forests of Madagascar. It is a member of the Annonaceae family, which includes many tropical fruit trees, and it has several common names, including "Kakana," "Tsiohara," and "Tomatse."
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to eight meters tall, with straight, cylindrical trunks and a conical canopy of dark green leaves. The leaves are large, glossy, and oblong in shape. The flowers are yellowish-green and appear in clusters at the base of the leaves. The fruit is a green, fleshy, and oval shape, about 5-10 cm in diameter, with soft and fibrous pulp, and it contains numerous black seeds.
Uses
Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé is used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments such as respiratory infections, fever, and diarrhea. The bark and leaves contain alkaloids and flavonoids that may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Additionally, the fruit is edible and is used in some local dishes. The wood of this tree is also used for furniture, tools, and building materials, thanks to its hardness and durability.
Light Requirements
Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow. It is best to place it near a window that receives bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F). It cannot tolerate cold temperatures or sudden drops in temperature. Therefore, it should be placed in a room with a consistent temperature and away from drafty areas.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite can provide the right conditions for growth. Use a pot with drainage holes to avoid waterlogging the soil, which can cause the roots to rot.
Water Requirements
Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Do not let the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the leaves to wilt. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks to provide nutrients for growth. Do not fertilize during the winter months as the plant enters a dormancy period.
Cultivation methods
Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé is a plant that requires specific cultivation methods to thrive. It grows best in humid subtropical climates, and it can tolerate partial shade. When planting this species, ensure that you use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter to provide the nutrients it needs.
You can propagate Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé through seed, cuttings, or division. However, it is challenging to find seeds or cuttings of this species, making division the most common propagation method.
Watering needs
Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé prefers moist conditions. Watering should be done regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil consistently moist. Ensure that you avoid over-watering as it may cause the roots to rot. A well-draining potting mix can prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
The Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé requires regular fertilization to promote growth and flower production. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that is suited for plants growing in acidic soil, and apply according to the instructions on the package. The best time to use fertilizer is during the growing season, when the plant is actively growing.
Pruning
It is recommended that Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé be pruned regularly to maintain its shape and size. Pruning should be done using sterile and sharp pruning tools to avoid damage to the plant tissue.
Remove the dead, damaged, or diseased stems and branches to promote growth and ensure that the plant remains healthy. Prune the plant in the dormant season to help it produce more blooms in the following growing season.
Propagation of Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé
Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé is a rare plant species that is native to Madagascar. It belongs to the family Annonaceae and is primarily propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation of Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé by seeds is relatively easy. Fresh seeds that are collected from the plant must be sown in a well-draining potting mix. The mix must be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take up to four weeks.
It is essential to note that the seedlings of Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé are fragile and must be handled with care during the transplanting process.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation of Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé can also be done through cuttings. Softwood cuttings taken in spring or early summer have the highest success rate. To propagate with cuttings, choose healthy stems and cut them just below a leaf node. Remove any foliage from the bottom half of the cutting, leaving only two or three leaves at the top.
The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in bright, indirect sunlight. Keep the potting mix moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings can take several weeks to root, and it is essential to maintain a high level of humidity around them. Covering the pot with a plastic bag or propagator can help achieve this.
Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted to individual pots and grown until they are large enough to be planted in their permanent locations.
Conclusion
Propagation of Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé can be done through both seed and cutting methods. Both methods require specific care and attention, but with patience and proper conditions, they can be successful in producing healthy plant specimens.
Disease and Pest Management for Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé Plant
Stelechantha makakana N.Hallé is a relatively new plant species and hence, there is not much information available on the diseases and pests that affect this plant. However, based on the information available on its family, Melastomataceae, and the genus, Stelechantha, we can suggest some possible diseases and pests that might affect this plant.
Common Diseases
Bacterial Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the bacteria Xanthomonas campestris and is characterized by dark water-soaked spots on leaves, which can cause them to turn yellow and fall off. To prevent this disease, it is important to avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves as soon as they are noticed. Copper-based fungicides may also help in controlling this disease.
Fungal Leaf Spots: Several fungal species belonging to the genera Cercospora, Alternaria, and Phyllosticta can cause leaf spots on Stelechantha makakana plants. The symptoms of this disease include circular or irregular-shaped spots on leaves, which may have a yellow or dark brown center. To prevent this disease, it is important to avoid overhead watering, remove infected leaves, and apply a fungicide that contains either copper or chlorothalonil.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids feed on the underside of leaves and cause yellowing and stippling of leaves, which can eventually lead to leaf drop. To control spider mites, it is important to maintain high humidity levels around the plant, avoid over-fertilization, and treat the plant with a miticide that contains either pyrethrins or neem oil.
Scale Insects: These insects feed on the sap of the plant and produce a waxy covering that protects them from predators and insecticides. Scale insects can cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and even death of the plant in severe cases. To control scale insects, it is important to remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or insecticidal soap. Alternatively, a systemic insecticide may also be used.
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap and secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and promote the growth of sooty mold. Aphids can cause distorted leaves, stunted growth, and a general decline in the health of the plant. To control aphids, it is important to remove them manually with a strong stream of water or treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Overall, the key to managing diseases and pests in Stelechantha makakana plants is to maintain good cultural practices, such as proper watering, fertilization, and hygiene, and to act promptly when diseases or pests are noticed. By doing so, it is possible to keep this beautiful plant healthy and thriving.
